Treatment and recovery for Amphetamine Induced Psychosis

A 38 year old client sought treatment at Veda’s Mumbai Centre in 2024 for substance-induced psychosis resulting from amphetamine use, accompanied by anxiety disorder and depression. Through a structured rehabilitation program incorporating psychiatric care, therapy, and wellness practices, the client made significant progress in mental health and emotional stability.

Background

Patient Profile: A young adult professional experiencing work-related stress, declining interpersonal relationships, and severe emotional distress due to amphetamine abuse.

Initial Concerns: Persistent delusional ideations, hallucinations, heightened anxiety, and depressive episodes, all of which interfered with daily life and professional performance.

Treatment Goals

Primary Objective: Eliminate substance dependence while managing psychotic symptoms, anxiety, and depression. Enhance emotional regulation and long-term coping strategies.

Approach & Methodology

Holistic Interventions:

Medical Management: A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation led to the prescription of appropriate medications to address delusional ideations, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.

Psychotherapy: Evidence-based therapies were utilized:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focused on managing substance use, reducing anxiety, and restructuring distorted thought patterns.
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): Emphasized distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and mindfulness.
• Positive Psychology Exercises: Strength-based interventions to build self-esteem and confidence.

Wellness Practices: Integrated into daily routines to support mental and emotional
well-being:

• Yoga Philosophy: A structured approach based on the Eight Limbs of Yoga (Yamas, Niyamas, Asanas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi).
• Yin Yoga: Encouraged stillness and introspection to enhance emotional regulation.
• Mantra Meditation: Rhythmic chanting accompanied by live guitar music to deepen focus and relaxation.
• Yoga Nidra: Guided sessions to promote subconscious processing and deep relaxation.
• Five Sense Meditation: Enhanced mindfulness by engaging each sense individually.
• Self-Inquiry Meditation: Fostered introspection and awareness of personal thought patterns and emotional triggers.

Challenges Faced During Treatment

Patient-Specific Obstacles:

• Severe delusional ideations and hallucinations.
• High levels of anxiety and emotional distress during withdrawal.
• Resistance to structured therapy and initial skepticism towards mindfulness practices.
• Managing co-occurring disorders (substance-induced psychosis, generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD).
• Addressing the client’s deep-seated pessimism and fear of relapse.

Clinical or Logistical Hurdles:Approach & Methodology

Team’s Response:

• Personalized therapy sessions and continuous psychiatric monitoring to ensure medication efficacy.
• Gradual introduction of mindfulness and wellness practices to improve acceptance.
• Reinforcement of small victories and progress to enhance motivation and engagement.

Results & Success Indicators

Quantitative Outcomes:

• Reduction in delusional ideations and hallucinations.
• Improved anxiety and depressive symptoms.
• Enhanced ability to manage emotional distress.

Qualitative Outcomes:

• Shift from a pessimistic to a more optimistic outlook.
• Strengthened self-esteem and confidence.
• Reinforced commitment to sobriety and a structured wellness routine

Before & After Snapshot:

Before: Persistent delusions, social withdrawal, emotional instability, and substance dependence.

After: Improved emotional regulation, increased mindfulness, and a commitment to continued recovery.

Key Takeaways & Lessons Learned

Client Perspective: The client reported feeling more in control of their thoughts and emotions, emphasizing the role of therapy and wellness practices in their recovery.

Therapeutic Insights:

• A multidimensional approach integrating psychiatric care, therapy, and mindfulness accelerates recovery from substance-induced psychosis.
• Gradual exposure to wellness practices enhances acceptance and effectiveness in long-term recovery.

Advice for Others:

• Seek professional treatment that addresses both addiction and underlying mental health conditions.
• Incorporate structured mindfulness practices to strengthen emotional resilience and prevent relapse.

Confidentiality & Disclaimer

Anonymity Assurance: Names and identifying details have been changed or omitted to protect the privacy of the individual involved.

Medical Disclaimer: This case study is for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare guidance. Always consult a qualified medical provider for any mental health or addiction concerns.